We expect a lot from our countertops. They need to be durable yet easy to care for, stylish yet timeless-looking, so they don't seem dated in five years.

There are a number of factors to consider in your decision. Some surfaces, such as engineered stone and stainless steel, are sturdy and practically maintenance-free. Others, such as Carrara marble, are as elegant as it gets but trickier to care for. Budget plays a role, as does the style of your home—butcher block looks fabulous in a country kitchen but may not work in a sleek space. The good news is that there are more choices than ever from which to pick.

For this guide we've surveyed the most popular countertop options, outlining the pros and cons of each material as well as picking some of our favorite surfaces on the market—and where to find them. We've also rounded up photographs of some of the most stylish countertops from our magazine pages that will inspire your own renovation, as well as surprising ways for using these surface materials far beyond the kitchen and bath. Now that's counter intelligence.